Celebrating Lucile Bluford Day

Related Organization: Kansas City Public Library

Lucile Bluford served as a reporter, editor, and publisher of The Kansas City Call for more than six decades. As a leading voice in the Civil Rights movement, Bluford fought for equality for African Americans in housing, voting rights, employment, and education. She described her role as using “journalistic skills to fight for social change.” 

In 1988, the Library named its Prospect Avenue branch in honor of Bluford. The State of Missouri also recognizes July 1 as Lucile Bluford Day.  

Join us to celebrate starting at 1 p.m. with arts and craft activities, storytimes for children and teens, and book giveaways. Stop by the reception between 4 - 6 p.m. for refreshments, a photo booth, and a Kansas City Jazz Orchestra trio.  

Health innovator John W. Bluford III, founder and president of Bluford Healthcare Leadership Institute (BHLI) and former president and CEO of Truman Medical Centers, gives the keynote address at 6 p.m. Bluford shares personal anecdotes about his aunt and discusses the ongoing impact of her life and work in Kansas City.  

Co-sponsored by the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Beta Omega Chapter.